15 of the Clearest Bodies of Water In North America

They aren't kidding when they call this the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Nestled in Superior National Forest, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) hasn't changed much since the glaciers melted. Adding to its rugged, wild appeal, most of the 1,000+ lakes and streams are "paddle-only" so your excursion won't be interrupted by the loud hum of a motor boat.  Start your day early and witness a beautiful scene, like this one from Grace Lake, at sunrise. If camping isn't for you, try one of the many lakeside cabin options.

For more information, visit bwca.cc.

This is the family-friendly lakeside getaway that children and grown-ups alike will remember for years to come. First, there's the idyllic waters of enchanted Elkhart Lake, ideal for kayaking, row boating, or an afternoon dip. Or, there's the docks, where you can spend an afternoon reading with occasional glances up to take in the blue-green twinkle of the lake's surface. Finally, there's the laid-back Osthoff Lake Resort, where the caramelized scallops at Lola's on the Lake will melt on your tongue, just like your heart will when your kids ask "Can we never leave?" P.S. Kids and kid-at-heart will adore the race tracks and attractions at Road America. Don't miss it!

For more information, visit elkhartlake.com.

It's hard to beat Lake George. First, let's consider the tribute Thomas Jefferson gave the lake, by saying, "the most beautiful water I ever saw… its water as limpid as crystal."  The 32-mile long lake shifts from vivid blue-green to velvety navy blue, and provides many vantage points for visitors to see the fish and plants under the surface. When it's warm out, marvel at the steamboats crossing the waters or sail around one of the 183 islands on Lake George (some of which you can camp on!). You could easily spend a few days at The Sagamore Resort and its pool, restaurants, and spa, without ever leaving the grounds. Be sure to grab a meal at its crown jewel, The Lakehouse Restaurant, where timeless Adirondack scenery and one heck of a frozen margarita await you.

For more information, visit visitlakegeorge.com.

Once a community hub for the region's Native Americans, this historic River Walk hosts river barge cruisers so visitors can learn its storied past as they glide over its clear waters. Walk along the winding curves—or grab a bike from B-Cycle—stopping for mouthwatering cuisine along the way (Latin-inspired Ocho is a must). Craving adventure? Kayak through the Mission Reach and South Town area of the River Walk. If you can time your travel, head to to the rose of Old San Antone for the bustling Fiesta, with highlights including a massive river parade, street fairs, and live music. Stay at the famed St. Anthony Hotel for some unique people watching. Lost? Ambassador Amigos, donning colored shirts and straw hats are available to step in when GPS or a Yelp search doesn't cut in.

For more information, visit visitsanantonio.com.

Ah, if only we could channel the blissful vibes of Lake Murray all year long. When it comes to clear, glimmering lakes, you'll have a hard time finding a better option than Murray. Rent one of the 300 rooms available as a vacation rental or opt for camping or RVing in the area. Every year, over 125,000 people flock here to view the 4th of July Celebration on the lake (in 2017, it will take place on Saturday, July 1st), South Carolina's largest fireworks display. Catch the traditional boat parade that weekend, or on any given summer weekend, take in the "Purple Martin Phenomenon" where you can see these stunning birds on Lunch (Bomb) Island — the largest, natural, roosting sanctuary in all of North America.

For more information, visit lakemurraycountry.com.

Grayton Beach, with its sugar-white sand and emerald green water, may not be on your radar, but it's about time it is.  Coastal dune lakes take over the beautiful landscape here, which are wonders that only exist in a handful of places in the world (including New Zealand and Madagascar). Intrigued? The largest, and perhaps most impressive dune lake in the area is Western Lake in Grayton Beach State Park.  Book a cottage or vacation rental, and then let your mood dictate your day. Head to the shiny and serene water for stand-up paddle boarding or kayak tours, or lace up your hiking boots for a delightful excursion by land.

For more information, visit  visitsouthwalton.com.

Talk about dreamy origins: The Rocky Broad River majestically spills down through Hickory Nut Gorge and gently rolls through the valley that feeds into this divine body of water. In addition to the lake, there are three long bays, a seven-acre island, and a sprinkling of tiny bays and inlets with an enchanted backdrop of forest-studded hills and mountains. There's plenty to do on and around this man-made prize (rock climbing and bird watching  for example), but consider the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, horseback riding, and taking the kids to the Right Track Toy Museum absolute musts. Relaxation (and a lazy river!) awaits at the Wyndham Resort at Fairfield Mountains.

For more information, visit townoflakelure.com.

How'd the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River get its enviable sapphire hue? Winter runoff from Glacier National Park and the surrounding mountain ranges coupled with the healthy lake ecosystem make for the arresting turquoise and azure shades. Fine particles suspended in the water—known as glacial flour—also reflect sunlight, making the lake even more dazzling. Be sure to head to Wild Horse Island and stand in awe of its namesake animals (and bighorn sheep!), and after a long day of hiking and swimming, stay at  locally-owned Kalispell Grand Hotel. After a good night's sleep, explore the area's cherry orchards, where roadside cherry stands open during peak season in late July and early August.

For more information, visit discoverkalispell.com.

Really any point along the 17.5-mile trail around Redfish Lake is a good one for serene views. The lake is named for the brilliant sockeye salmon that once flocked here in such large schools that the lake twinkled a bold red shade during spawning season. When you're not busy hiking, biking, boating, or venturing out on a guided tour, make your home base the 1929 establishment Redfish Lake Lodge, where you can treat your ears to live music on the lawn and enjoy views of the waters. Art lover? Head here in September, when the Plein Air Painters of Idaho put on a Paint Out and Sale.

For more information, visit co.custer.id.us.

If you wish you could transport yourself to a simpler, quieter era, you can't do better than the tiny town of Aurora, perched on the glimmering, calm waters of Cayuga Lake. The twinkling, glassy surface casts an awe-inspiring spell all day long, but especially during sunrise. With only 300 full-time residents, the Inns of Aurora really is the heartbeat of the town where snapshots of your whimsical guest room will likely rival those you take of the lake. Start your day with a soothing yoga class or kayaking, before swooping up some collectibles at the MacKenzie-Childs campus store and touring nearby wineries. 

For more information, visit fingerlakestravelny.com. 

 Ice Lakes Basin and Maroon Lake in Colorado may receive lots of fanfare—and it's certainly well-deserved—but venture to this under-the-radar lake at the end of the Cathedral Lake Trail for an under-the-radar (and unforgettable) experience.  Make your stomping grounds the St.Regis Resort where the Camp Astor program offers no shortage of fun activities and perks (you even get to take a hammock home!). And as for this grand lake? Start with the beautiful hiking trail that weaves you through an aspen forest and then leads you into alpine meadows,  a scree field and, and a high meadow. Did we mention there's a waterfall along the way? At the summit, take in the grand views of the 13,943-foot Cathedral Peak, which anchors the high alpine lake.  Looking for a post-lake activity?  Swing by Ashcroft Ghost Town, which provides guides from the Aspen Historical Society in the summer.

For more information, visit aspenchamber.org.

How can you pass up an excursion on a beautiful river even country legend George Strait has lauded (just listen to his hit single "All My Exes Live in Texas")? Zen out floating down the pristine water via inner tube while you hold a cold beverage in one hand, and crank up your speakers with the other.  Here, the cool spring-fed waters that create the 200-mile long river are a welcome reprieve from the sun. Brace yourself for some mighty views when you cruise through Garner State Park with its surrounding chalk cliffs and Cypress trees. Camp in the park, or recover from a long day in a cabin at Andy's on River Road. Does your journey take you to Concan in September? The weekend after Labor Day is great for visitors and locals alike thanks to the Frio River Trash Bash. During this party, swimming fun, prizes and free barbecue are offered for volunteers that help clean up the river and keep it beautiful. Sold, y'all!

 For more information, visit visituvaldecounty.com.

Venture inside the namesake Waterton Lakes National Park and be prepared to have your breath taken away. The natural splendor feels untouched by development (the town has a population of 50 in the winter, and only around 3,000 in the summer), and offers magical vistas of the Canadian Rockies. Part of the Waterton Glacier International Peace Park (shared with Montana), the palpable energy of wildlife pulses at every turn.  One day, explore Cameron Falls at the end of town with deer or elk, another,  relish in the fresh air  at Bear's Hump, which  also gives you a bird's eye view of Upper Waterton Lake and town. Camp at Crandell Mountain or enjoy a cozy mountain escape at Waterton Glacier Suites.

For more information, visit travelalberta.com.

Inside Banff National Park, the clarity of this lake is unlike anything you've ever seen. Winter here has bragging rights for first-rate powder skiing, while summer hiking here is so pretty you won't believe your eyes. Stay at Buffaloberry, a warm inn where the "Triple B" pancakes (blueberry, buttermilk, buckwheat) are in their own fluffy universe of perfection. Forty minutes away from the resort town of Banff, Lake Louise is the gateway to the Icefields Parkway, hailed by National Geographic as one of the 10 most scenic drives in the world. That spiffy new camera on your holiday wish list was an excellent call, huh?

For more information, visit banfflakelouise.com.